CVE-2024-39655 in LiquidPoll Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/02/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation (XSS or 'Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in LiquidPoll LiquidPoll – Advanced Polls for Creators and Brands.This issue affects LiquidPoll – Advanced Polls for Creators and Brands: from n/a through 3.3.77.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the LiquidPoll WordPress plugin that enables attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users. The issue stems from inadequate input sanitization during the web page generation process, specifically when handling user-supplied data in poll creation and display functionalities. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 3.3.77, making all earlier releases susceptible to exploitation. The improper neutralization of input occurs at multiple points where user-generated content is processed and rendered without adequate validation or encoding mechanisms. This allows malicious actors to inject script code that executes in the context of other users' browsers when they view affected poll pages.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the classic XSS attack pattern where user input is directly incorporated into HTML output without proper sanitization. When administrators or users create polls with malicious payloads in question text, answer options, or other configurable fields, the plugin fails to properly encode these inputs before rendering them on web pages. This creates an environment where attackers can execute arbitrary JavaScript code in victims' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments or links.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks targeting WordPress administrators and users. Attackers could craft malicious poll questions that, when viewed by administrators, could execute code to escalate privileges or modify plugin settings. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where administrators regularly create and manage polls, as the attack surface increases with the number of potential victims. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited to create persistent backdoors through session manipulation or to perform unauthorized actions within the WordPress admin interface. The risk is amplified when considering that the plugin targets creators and brands, suggesting a high-value user base that may be targeted for credential theft or data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to version 3.3.77 or later, which contains the necessary input validation and sanitization fixes. Administrators should also implement additional security measures including regular security audits of plugin installations, monitoring for suspicious user activity, and implementing content security policies to limit script execution. The WordPress security team recommends that all users immediately update their LiquidPoll installations and review recent plugin activity for signs of compromise. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth, though the primary remediation involves updating the vulnerable plugin to a secure version. Regular vulnerability scanning and maintaining updated security practices are essential for preventing exploitation of similar input validation flaws in other plugins or custom web applications.